White vinegar can help remove some stains — but it can also damage certain surfaces. Here’s when it works, when it doesn’t, and what to use instead.

White vinegar is often recommended as a natural stain remover. It’s inexpensive, easy to find, and works well in some situations. But when it comes to car interiors, vinegar isn’t always the safest solution.
Whether vinegar works or causes damage depends on the type of stain and the material you’re cleaning.

White vinegar may help with:
When diluted properly, vinegar can break down some organic stains. However, it should always be tested on a small area first to avoid discoloration or damage.

Vinegar is acidic, which can cause problems on:
It can leave behind odors, cause fading, or push stains deeper into the material instead of removing them.
White vinegar can help with some light stains, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution — especially for car interiors. Using the wrong cleaner can make stains worse or permanently damage materials.
📍 If you’re in New York, RetroClean Detailing uses professional products designed specifically for automotive interiors to remove stains safely and effectively.